Don't Keep Benefits Deadlines a Secret
The calendar you create is not just an internal document to guide processing.
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PrintHealthcare reform may be headline news but your employees are likely to be more concerned with changes that will affect their coverage as of
Publish the Calendar
In the clearest format possible provide advance notice of meetings, online requirements and due dates. If employees are expected to use the web to enroll let them know when the site will be available. Use multiple forms of communication. Email is terrific but don’t forget to outline deadlines in a letter, old fashioned simple posters will add immediate impact. More than one employee will see the reminder, “Open Enrollment Forms Must Be Completed by
Collect Frequently Asked Questions
This is a perfect time to gather the most common questions and create a FAQ sheet for distribution. Whether they are in person, on line or by phone, the inquiries will have some commonality and spreading answers anticipates the needs of all employees. Looking at the pattern may also point out a glitch in the process or system. This gives you the opportunity to change forms or tweak an online program before frustrations mount.
Remind Them Again
Don’t wait to send out terse emails that say, “If we don’t receive your enrollment within 24 hours your health coverage will be cancelled.” Reminders along the way are much friendlier and more likely to decrease grumbling.
If your plans allow employees to continue the same coverage without signing any forms make certain that this is clear in all materials. A confirmation of coverage is a nice touch that reinforces plan benefits and changes. Don’t hide or try to cover up modifications. Prepare employees for increases in out of pocket expenses so they can make informed decisions. Avoiding full disclosure now will only lead to anger after the New Year begins.
